Maintaining your dog’s joint health involves more than regular exercise. Varied, dynamic movement is crucial for lubricating, strengthening, and keeping their joints flexible. This prevents localized wear, boosts synovial fluid circulation, and improves flexibility. To achieve this, mix up walking surfaces, do low-impact exercises, provide off-leash time, and incorporate stretching and massage.
Author Archives: Elina Halonen
The role of conformation in spaniel health and strength
Many assume that if a dog can perform its job well, it must be fit and healthy but working ability alone is not enough. The key to a long, injury-free life lies in a dog’s structural conformation. Proper structure supports the body, prevents injury, and ensures that the dog can perform at its best overContinueContinue reading “The role of conformation in spaniel health and strength”
Reframing ADHD in dogs from a compassionate perspective
The discussion of ADHD-like behaviors in dogs has sparked debate, with Behavior Vets’ approach drawing criticism for overlooking the social and emotional dimensions of ADHD. Liza Rader’s open letter emphasized avoiding pathologizing and suppressing natural traits in dogs, paralleling the challenges faced by individuals with ADHD. A more empathetic understanding is needed, recognizing the context and natural inclinations of both dogs and individuals with ADHD. This shift from labeling and suppression to acceptance and support can create compassionate, effective, and ethical approaches in both dog training and human support.
Embracing your imperfectly perfect dog
Dogs have taught me to accept imperfection and recognize that everything is a work in progress. I was talking with a friend recently who is training her first dog, now a teenager, and I told her that no dog is ever perfect. With my third dog, I now worry less about certain things—not because they’reContinueContinue reading “Embracing your imperfectly perfect dog”
The ultimate test of unconditional love is when you have to say goodbye
It was my birthday earlier this week, but hardly anyone knows it – and I prefer it that way. I don’t want any well wishes of a happy day, because 2 years ago I said goodbye to my best friend the night before my birthday and forever resetting the baseline for a good day, letContinueContinue reading “The ultimate test of unconditional love is when you have to say goodbye”
Shaping sound minds and bodies: raising puppies with evidence-based enrichment protocols
Last year, I raised my first litter of Polish Hunting Spaniel puppies – an intensive yet inspiring project drawing on my background as a psychologist. I had immersed myself in the science of canine wellbeing for two years, so my goal as a breeder was to optimise the puppies’ mental wellbeing by using scientifically backed techniques and environmental enrichment protocols. In this post, I want to share my experiences.
Form follows function: the importance of structure in dog health and performance
The job of the Polish Hunting Spaniel (PSM) is to excel as a versatile hunting companion – a task where its physical structure also plays a crucial role. In this article, we’ll explore why structure matters for a PSM’s health and performance and how breed standards serve as a blueprint for ensuring that our dogs are well-suited for their intended purposes.
Decoding dog training philosophies: Planet Compliance vs. Planet Partnership
This article explores the ideological divide in dog training, contrasting traditional compliance-based methods with the emerging partnership-based approach. Inspired by Maya Badham’s “Planets” concept, it delves into the philosophical underpinnings, challenges of transitioning mindsets, and broader societal influences shaping dog training practices. Ultimately, it emphasizes the transformative power of empathy and respect in building a deep human-dog connection.
How reactivity levels and activity levels interact in dog temperament
The article by Martha Hoffman delves into the categorization of dogs based on their temperaments, discussing traits such as reactivity and activity. It emphasizes the importance of understanding these traits when thinking about a dog’s behavior and potential issues that may arise from specific combinations of traits.
On leash laws and the hidden costs of restricting dog movement
Recent changes in leash laws in Spain, reflecting similar policies in countries like Finland and the United States, sparked some thoughts about dog welfare. While these laws aim to maintain public safety and order, they inadvertently impact a crucial aspect of canine well-being – the need for dogs to move freely. Dogs are built toContinueContinue reading “On leash laws and the hidden costs of restricting dog movement”
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